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Checklist: How to Find Childcare

Choosing someone to care for your children while you work is one of the most important decisions you will make. The following checklist can help you find childcare that's right for your children. By answering the questions below, you'll be able to determine whether a particular home or center meets your criteria, so that you can be more informed and more confident with your decision, and your child can be in the best possible hands. You can also download the checklist to keep with you as you look to find childcare for your child.

While (or immediately after) visiting each potential childcare facility, consider the following questions:

Yes

No

Do you have a positive first impression as you walk through the front door?

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Is the home or center licensed?

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Do(es) the caregiver(s) have appropriate education, experience, and training?

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Does the home or center provide a handbook that covers important rules and policies?

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Do you feel comfortable with the rules and policies?

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Does the caregiver-to-child ratio meet state requirements and your expectations?

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Does the home or center look and smell clean?

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Do the caregivers wash their hands after changing diapers and helping children in the bathroom?

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Do the children wash their hands after using the bathroom?

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Do the caregivers wash their hands before handling food?

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Do the children wash their hands before eating?

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Is the home or center safe and child-proof?

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Are small toys kept away from infants and toddlers?

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Are outlets covered?

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Are doors to stairways closed, or are stairways gated?

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Is there the required number of operational smoke detectors?

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Are fire extinguishers handy?

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Are cupboards containing harmful substances securely latched?

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Are emergency numbers posted by all telephones?

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Are outdoor areas fenced and/or away from traffic areas?

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Do the children appear happy?

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Is the home or center too noisy or too quiet?

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Does the caregiver smile at the children?

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Does the caregiver talk so that the children can understand him or her?

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Does the caregiver demonstrate a positive attitude?

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Does it appear that the caregiver loves what he or she is doing?

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Does the caregiver show affection toward the children?

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Does the caregiver respond appropriately to crying children?

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Does the caregiver answer the children's questions?

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Does the caregiver appear patient?

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Does the caregiver encourage the children to treat each other with respect?

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Is the caregiver respectful to other parents?

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Are other parents happy with the care their children receive at the home or center?

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Does the caregiver follow a daily schedule?

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Is outdoor play a part of each day, weather permitting?

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Are plenty of toys and books available?

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Does the caregiver read to the children?

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Are there planned activities each day, such as games or crafts?

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Do the children go on field trips?

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Are drivers licensed and experienced in transporting children?

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Are the vehicles safe?

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Do the children use appropriate restraints?

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Are children given the time and a quiet place to nap or rest?

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Does the home or center provide nutritious meals and snacks?

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Is the location convenient for you to drop off and pick up your child?

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Does the home or center allow you to visit at any time, with or without notice?

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Have any complaints been filed against the provider?

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Has the provider's license ever been suspended?

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Does the cost compare favorably with comparable facilities?

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Will you feel comfortable leaving your child there?

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Next Steps

Contact a qualified family law attorney to make sure your rights are protected.